QUOTE (ign)

New Xbox 360s Shipping with Upgraded DVD Drive
New BenQ supplied drive is quieter, faster.
by Gerry Block

February 6, 2007 - Xbox-Scene.com, a long standing community of Xbox and 360 hackers and modders, exposed an unpublicized, yet positive, upgrade to the Xbox 360's hardware. According to sources, a portion of Xbox 360s produced from November '06 onwards are incorporating a new, quieter DVD drive. Previous 360s have used Toshiba-Samsung and Hitachi-LG drives, the sources of the 360's characteristic whirr. The new DVD drives, manufactured by BenQ, are significantly quieter and are based upon a Philips design superior to others employed in Xbox 360s.

It is likely that ever increasing percentages of newly manufactured 360s will include the new BenQ drive until the remaining supply of the older DVD drives is completely exhausted. Owners of Xbox 360s with the BenQ drive have reported significantly quieter operation and slightly quicker load times.

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QUOTE

Videora Converter
Videora Converter is a free video converter that converts video files, YouTube videos, movies and DVD's so you can play them on your video playing device. The software can convert all types of video files (avi, divx, xvid, flv, x264, vob, mpeg, DVD's, YouTube, etc.) into the proper video formats that play on your video playing device. It is available for Windows and Mac.

QUOTE

Blu Ray:

UPS
• Stunning quality at 1080p
• Runs normal dvds, upscaling the picture making them look pretty

DOWNS
• only worth buying if you're a SONY gamer (PS3), or if you have a budget of $800-$1500, or if you have an 1080p HDTV (only if you have the previous requirements) with HDMI (sold separately) and a Fiber Optic audio cable (also sold separately)

HD DVD:

UPS
• slightly lower, yet very satisfying resolution of 1080i, where the difference is only really noticeable if you are sitting 3 inches away from the tv
• only $499+, or $199 if you have an XBOX 360
• XBOX 360 HD DVD drive is external, and you can use it on your PC
• larger selection of movies
• 1080i HDTVs are much more common and affordable than 1080p tvs
• Also runs normal dvds, upscaling the picture making them look pretty

DOWNS
• some have ridiculously long warm-up times, but it is an acceptable wait, considering the great functionality of the system.
• for best quality, you still need to buy an HDMI cable (sold separately) and a Fiber Optic audio cable (also sold separately)

QUOTE

Full Xbox 360 price details revealed (Xbox 360)
Official pricing of the Xbox 360 revealed

Microsoft has confirmed that there will be two Xbox 360 packages at launch: one with a hard disk and accessories and one without. The full package details and prices are detailed below.

Xbox 360 Core System - $299 (299 Euros, 209 GBP)

    * Xbox 360 console
    * Wired controller
    * Detachable faceplate
    * Xbox Live Silver membership
    * Standard AV cables

Xbox 360 - $399 (399 Euros, 279 GBP)

    * Xbox 360 console
    * 20GB detachable hard drive
    * Wireless controller
    * Wireless Xbox Live headset
    * High-definition AV cables
    * Ethernet cable
    * Xbox 360 Media Remote Control (limited time)
    * Detachable faceplate
    * Xbox Live Silver membership



The many peripherals will retail for the following:

    * Faceplate ($19.99, 19.99 Euros, 14.99 GBP)
    * Hard Drive (20 GB) ($99.99, 99.99 Euros, 69.99 GBP)
    * Memory Unit (64 MB) ($39.99, 34.99 Euros, 22.99 GBP)
    * Wireless Networking Adapter ($99.99, 79.99 Euros, 59.99 GBP)
    * Wireless Controller ($49.99, 44.99 Euros, 32.99 GBP)
    * Play and Charge Kit ($19.99, 19.99 Euros, 14.99 GBP)
    * Rechargeable Battery Pack ($11.99, 14.99 Euros, 9.99 GBP)
    * Controller ($39.99, 34.99 Euros, 24.99 GBP)
    * Headset ($19.99, 19.99 Euros, 14.99 GBP)
    * Universal Media Remote ($29.99, 29.99 Euros, 19.99 GBP)
    * Component HD AV Cable ($39.99, 29.99 Euros, 19.99 GBP)
    * S-Video AV Cable (US) ($29.99)
    * SCART AV Cable (Europe) (24.99 Euros, 17.99 GBP)
    * VGA HD AV Cable ($39.99, 29.99 Euros, 19.99 GBP)



"The sheer entertainment value of Xbox 360 cannot be overstated," said Robbie Bach, chief Xbox officer for Microsoft. "While the system has the muscle to power awe-inspiring graphics, audio and online play, it's also got the intelligence to serve as a one-of-a-kind entertainment device that plays CDs, DVDs, MP3s and digital content from an array of devices, including portable music players and digital cameras."

"With both the Xbox 360 and the Xbox 360 Core System, we're offering consumers real choice and real value," said Peter Moore, corporate vice president of worldwide marketing and publishing for the Home Entertainment Division at Microsoft. "We're bringing true next-generation experiences into gamers' living rooms this Christmas."

Well, the rumours can now end. There will be two different packages and the hard disk will not be as standard. No word has been given on the release date, but we'll keep you updated.

By Tom Orry

QUOTE (span style)

Console Related FAQs (PS2 & XBoX)
XBoX

Written by amStart isignz , thanx buddy!


DISCLAIMER:
Much of this information has been taken from Xbox Scene . This site is very useful and will answer most questions and has very useful tutorials. I do not take any credit for their work. Thanks to NE01 for the updated FAQ.

How do I play xbox releases that I have downloaded?
Your Xbox needs to be modified with a modchip to play backup games. There is no boot disc or miracle trick to play without one. Do not bother downloading any of the fake xbox boot discs or emulators as all are fakes and most are viruses.

What about these newer v1.1 Xboxes?
There are less bioses to choose from and there are more protection schemes in place from the first version of xbox. The upside is that you have a higher chance of getting a better DVD drive, and a bigger hard drive. These can now be chipped using the latest bioses.

What modchip should I choose?
There are many modchips to choose from.
The first generation of Xbox chips is 29 wires. Most have similar features, so the main difference will be the price & quality of production.
The second generation has more features and less wires.
The newest generation have between none and 10 wires, and sometimes come programmable (read: updatable) and (some) without a bios, so the chips are legal.
An excellent comparison of modchips and bioses is at Xbox Scene

At the time of writing, the most popular modchips are Xecuter 2 (Lite or Pro), Xodus/Matrix (unless you want to use the developer or older linux bios), and the PC-Bioxx, but it is hard to find, now that Lik Sang does not sell modchips any more. All of these modchips have switches to turn them off. This is good for Xbox Live.

Do I have to get/use/flash a bios?
Depends on the modchip. Most new ones come without a bios, but Xecuter 2 Lite has one in.

Which bios should I use?
Depends on what features you want. Although the the newest bioses now are Evox D.6 , and Xecuter 4974. A bios comparison table is available at Xbox Scene.

Whats the difference between Evox and Evolution-X?
Evox is a bios, and Evolution-X is a dashboard designed by the same people.

What is a dashboard?
It is the interface when you start your Xbox with no media in it.
You can put a dashboard on your hard drive, and you can customize it. For example, put links to movies or games on your hard drive.

Can I put games on my hard drive?
Yes, check the tutorials . You will probibly have to buy a new hard drive though because most xbox hdd's are under 10 gigs.

Do I have to solder my modchip?
Yes, unless you buy a solderless modchip like the Xecuter 2 with pin header, or the Xodus/Matrix . Or, you can find someone to solder it for you Or you can get a pre-modded one.

Can the Xbox read CD-R/CD-RW and if so, which brands?
Usually not, but it doesn't hurt to try, as some people have reported that some do.
The Xbox can read most CD-RW's. Keep in mind that the Xbox DVD drive lens is very sensitive, so don't burn CD-RW's too fast (max 4x on a very good burner, and high quality CD-RWs).
If you still have problems reading the CD-RW, try this:
Put in CD-RW, then turn it off with the CD-RW inside, then turn on. If this doesn't work, just eject and close a couple times and it will work.

As a general rule CD-R's will almost never work for games (music is only 1x, so more chances it will work).
CD-RW: most work.
DVD-R/+R: almost all work.
DVD-RW/+RW: most work.
Note: If you use CD-RW, you need get ripped games, so they may have less songs or movies, or a lower quality songs or movies.
Keep in mind, that currently DVD-R/RW's are a bit better, and a bit cheaper than +R/RW.

Try not to compare CD-RW's by brand because there are only a few factories that make them and many companies buy from these factories. Look here for a better explanation.

You can replace the DVD drive or connect a pc dvd drive as a slave, so the laser is more compatible with different media.
Or, you can just put your games on a new hard drive.
Tutorals are here: here and here .

Is an Xbox ISO/DVD readable in Windows?
No, the Xbox uses a different file system than Windows. Xbox uses XDFS and Windows uses CDFS. Several programs that allow you to read Xbox ISOs are here and a tutorial . One of the best tools for making isos to burn is gdfimage, avalable in the Xbox SDK here: ed2k: XBOX_SDK_June2002_4627.WAM.ShareReactor.exe

What is PAL NTSC/U and NTSC/J?
Those are 3 TV systems.
PAL is used in Europe, Australia and some Asian/African countries.
NTSC/U is used in America and NTSC/J is used in Japan and some Asian countries.

This means a European Xbox, also called PAL Xbox, which will output a "PAL-stream". An american Xbox will output a "NTSC/U-stream".
Most new TV's can handle the 3 systems though.
PAL, NTSC/U, NTSC/J is also used as territories. PAL games will only work on a PAL Xbox, NTSC/U games will only work on a NTSC/U Xbox, ...

NOTE: Most modchips let you play any region on all Xbox types.

What should I use DVD-RW/R or DVD+RW/R?
As you know, there are 2 DVD recordable systems:
1. DVD-RW/R : Pioneer models and clones, mostly.
2. DVD+RW/R : Mostly HP, some Sony (Note: Sony puts mostly DVD-R/RW in to their Vaio computers, and has a very good 'crossover' drive, that burns to both DVD-R/RW and DVD+R/RW Model #DRU500A)

For now we know that Xbox works fine with most DVD-RW/R and DVD+RW/R.
At this moment DVD-RW/R writers and DVD-RW/R media are cheaper and will also work fine on PS2, and there are special DVD-Rs you can buy for Xbox/PS2 here: http://www.xboxmods.com/.
For old DVD players, DVD-R/RW offers better compatability.

What's the difference between *CD-Version* and *DVD-Rip*?
CD-Version means that movies/music might have been downsampled so the release can fit on 1 or more CD-R/CD-RW, but NOTHING has been removed.

DVD-RIP means that movies/music/textures have been 'ripped' (removed and relinked) so it can fit on or more CD-R/RW. The .nfo files should contain more info about what has been ripped away.

What do I do with .001 files and how to open?
.001 are normal .zip/.rar files. You can open the .001 file with WinRAR and extract the .iso (or any other image type) file.

Is there a (working) boot-disc?
There are not even rumors of one (there are fakes though).

What software should I use to burn DVD's or CD's, and at what settings?
Check Xbox Scene's tutorial .

Does Xbox Live work with modchips?
Usually not, but sometimes you can get lucky.

Can I play Xbox online, without Xbox Live?
Yes, but you will need a computer, and a router, hub, or two ethernet cards. And you will need one of these tools . Try Xbconnect because it uses packet compression for less lag and has wireless network compatability. You can also play games like Halo with 8-16 players online which you cannot do with xbox live.

Where can I find more information?
A large FAQ is at Xbox Scene and their newer FAQ is here .
Many tutorials are here .
More information, and the latest news can be found on Xbox Scene and [ Xbox Hacker . They both have good forums.
If you cant find where to get some files, go to http://www.xbins.com/ or http://www.xtracer.net.
If you want an irc channel, go here (mIRC): irc://irc.efnet.net/xbins4newbies or irc://irc.efnet.net/xbins
If you have some other way of getting on irc, go to irc.efnet.net / #xbins, or #xbins4newbies
Some tutorials are also on the Evolution-X offical website .
All these places have farly good forums as well.

QUOTE (_mofoshare_)

PS2

PS2 Modchip FAQ

PS2 Mediaplayer FAQ


Another useful pack of information, done by -_mofoshare_-

Pal & NTSC
If your game ever comes out in black and white that means that your TV doesnt support NTSC (If you live in europe) or Pal (If in south america, Jap)

How to fix this
1. Head over to www.gamefreax.de and look through the Video mode patches there. You will need PPF-O-Matic which can be found Here

2. If Your TV has a RGB input go buy a RGB cable and all you PAL & NTSC games will play in color.

3. If there is no patch for your game head over to www.adr-uk.com and look in the PS2 forums for the PAL2NTSC patcher with "Y-fix"

Remember: Some games are released with a built in Pal& NTSC selector so read the NFO first

WTF are all these .00, .01 files i have
First of all get yourself the lastest version of Winrar which u can fine here: ed2k: wrar320ce_(WinRAR_3.20_Corporate_Edition-Loomie).exe

How to extract the Bin&Cue files
1. Right click the first .00 file and select to open it with Winrar.

2. Winrar should open up and you will see the Bin&cue files inside.

3. Extract them to the directory of your choice!

Ohhhhh How do i burn the Bin&Cue files
first of all get the latest version of nero which you can find here: ed2k: Nero_Burning_ROM_v5.5.10.0.ORiON.rar I dont know about most people but Nero has worked with every game i have burnt. (I have a apple 2 modchip)

1. Open up nero and click file, burn image and select the Cue file that your have extracted from the archives.

2. A box will open up, Just click burn or write or copy or whatever!

3. If the game still doesnt boot try using
ed2k: Alcohol.120%.1.4.3.410.+.Keygen.zip
ed2k: GoldenHawk.CDRWin.v3.9C.Keygen.Only-ORiON.rar

Remember: If you have a non-solder mod, using the "swap trick" or anything like that which doesnt envolve a modchip forget it chances are the game will never work because they have a very high failure rate. So do yourself a favour and get a %^#^^ modchip.

How to Burn PS2 ISO files with Cdrwin:
Open CDRWin and select "File Backup and Tools."

Next we choose "Record ISO9660" from the top drop down menu.

We then select our image file, XXXXXX.ISO.

Now from the bottom drop down menus we select CDROMXA and MODE2.

..make sure that ONLY "Finalize/Close Session" and "Write Postgap" are checked. Select your Speed. Now simply hit "Start" and wait for the burn to finish.
Thanks to HJFUBAR for this

What are DVD-Rips and DVD-R's?
1. DVD-Rips are games that have been taken from dvd and then put on cdr. In order for the game to fit on one cd some things have to removed from the game such as movies (intro, credits, ingame) or sounds. If the game is still to big it may be spread out on 2cds to 4cds.
Remember: Check out the game to make sure if its a DVD-Rip or DVD-R on www.ps2-newz.org

2. DVD-R's (Use DVD-R media!) are an exact copy of the original game and are much larger than a DVD-Rip and are usually released in *.ISO or *.GI format to burn these you will need to use:
ed2k: Prassi_Primo_DVD_2.0.exe or
ed2k: Stomp.RecordNow.MAX.v4.5.ROR.ShareReactor.[found.via.www.fileDonkey.com].zip Use these for burning (*.GI format files)
ed2k: GoldenHawk.CDRWin.v3.9C.Keygen.Only-ORiON.rar (*.ISO format files)

If you like to use CDRWin to burn PS2 games , look here:

a) Open CDRWin and select "File Backup and Tools."

Next we choose "Record ISO9660" from the top drop down menu.

c) We then select our image file, XXXXXX.ISO.

d) Now from the bottom drop down menus we select CDROMXA and MODE2.

..make sure that ONLY "Finalize/Close Session" and "Write Postgap" are checked. Select your Speed. Now simply hit "Start" and wait for the burn to finish.

At last there is also a nice overview for PS2 Boot procedures for all mod chips , done by scamper , great work man!

NEOKEY SBOX:

Booting a PlayStation 1 CDR Backup Copy

• Ensure the USB MOD is switched on (all the way right).
• Insert the PlayStation CDR copy into you PS2 and boot as normal. The USB
• MOD will automatically detect the media and game type.

Booting a PlayStation 1 Original

• Ensure the USB MOD is switched off (all the way left).
• Insert the original PlayStation game into the disc tray and boot the PS2 as normal.

Booting a PlayStation 2 Original

• Ensure the USB MOD is switched off (all the way left).
• Insert the original PlayStation 2 game into the disc tray and boot the PS2 as normal.

Booting a PlayStation2 CDR Backup Copy

• Insert the Action Replay 2 Memory card into a free memory card slot.
• Ensure the USB MOD is switched 'OFF' (all the way left).
• Power on the PS2 and eject the disc tray and insert Action Replay 2 Disc 1 and power the system off.
• Power the PS2 on and wait until the black screen containing the PlayStation2 logo appears then move the USB MOD switch into the 'ON' position (all the way right) allow the system to boot to the Action Replay 2 main menu.
• Select 'Start Game' from the Action Replay 2 menu.
• Select start game 'Without' cheat codes.
• Eject the disc tray, remove the Action Replay 2 disc1 and insert the PlayStation2 CDR copy. Press X to continue.

Please Note: This boot method will not boot some EA Sports titles without patching them first.


R-Mod "No Solder" Mod Chip


Booting a Playstation2 DVD (Silver or DVD-R) Gameshark 2 V1.99b and BELOW

• Boot GS2 disc 1.
• At the main screen, press the EJECT button to eject the CD tray.
• Replace the GS2 disc with an original PS2 DVD game, such as Devil May Cry.
• Close the CD tray (press EJECT again) and wait for about 30 seconds.
• Select START GAME and then select WITHOUT CODES.
• Once the GS2 is asking to change the game disc, press the EJECT button till the light changes from green to orange.
• The CD tray will now open and you can replace the DVD game with your backup copy.
• The CD tray will automatically close after about 5 seconds.
• Wait till the the power LED changes from orange to green again and press X now to start the game.

Booting a Playstation2 DVD (Silver or DVD-R) Gameshark 2 V2.01 and ABOVE


• Boot GS2 disc 1.
• At the main screen, press the EJECT button to eject the CD tray.
• Replace the GS2 disc with an original PS2 DVD game.
• Close the CD tray (press EJECT again) and wait for 15 seconds.
• Select gameshark codes and turn on or off any code on any game.
• Press start, select with codes and press x to load game.
• A black screen will appear saying "updating codes please wait"
• Do the R-mod swap by pressing and holding eject, swap with backup, tray will close and game will load.

• NOTE: The swap must be performed within the time you see the black screen.

• this has been tested with this method with GS2 v 2.01 through 2.11.

• It works 100% of the time providing the backup is good.

Booting a Playstation2 CD (Silver or CD-R)

• Boot GS2 disc 1.
• At the main screen, select START GAME and then select WITHOUT CODES.
• Once the GS2 is asking to change the game disc, press the EJECT button till the light changes from green to orange.
• The CD tray will now open and you can replace the CD game with your backup copy.
• The CD tray will automatically close after about 5 seconds.
• Wait till the the power LED changes from orange to green again and press X now to start the game.

Booting a Playstation 1 CD (Silver or CD-R)

• Boot GS2 disc 2.
• At the main screen, select START GAME and then select WITHOUT CODES.
• Once the GS2 is asking to change the code archive, press the EJECT button till the light changes from green to orange.
• The CD tray will now open and you can replace the CD with your backup copy.
• The CD tray will automatically close after about 5 seconds.
• Wait till the the power LED changes from orange to green again and press X now to start the game.

Magic 2


NOTE: This is with the disk assumed in the tray and the tray closed:

Playstation 2 games

•Power up normally from STANDBY with RESET button. A single tap of the reset button is required.

Playstation 1 games & DVD Movies

•Power up from STANDBY with RESET button held until the blue EJECT light comes on.
•Then release RESET and the disk will boot.

NOTE: Turn off the PS2 (to standby) before changing Modes (PS1/PS2/DVD)



Magic 3, 3.1


NOTE: This is with the disk assumed in the tray and the tray closed:

Playstation 2 Games

• Power up normally from STANDBY with RESET button. A single tap is required.

Playstation 1 games & DVD Movies

• Power up from STANDBY with RESET button held until the blue EJECT light comes on; then release RESET and the disk will boot.

NOTE: Turn off the PS2 (to standby) before changing Mode (PS1/PS2/DVD)

NOTE: To turn off the modchip....... Hold reset for 3-5 seconds.

NEO 2.2


Normal Boot Method (PS2 Backups)

That standard method for PS2 backups using AR2/GS2
• Insert the AR2/GS2 CD1
• Power off the PS2 for 5 seconds
• Turn on the machine - will boot to a menu
• Select START GAME
• Select WITHOUT CODES
• Press Eject
• Swap AR2/GS2 disc with your PS2 backup
• Press eject to close tray
• Press X AS SOON as the tray closes
• The game will now load

Alternative Boot Method (PS2 Backups & AR2/GS2 v1.1)

NOTE: This alternative method has had greater success with v1.1 AR2/GS2

• Insert the AR2/GS2 CD1
• Power off the PS2 for 5 seconds
• Turn on the machine - will boot to a menu
• Select START GAME
• Select WITHOUT CODES
• Screen will say Insert Disc - Press X
• Press Eject
• Swap AR2/GS2 disc with your PS2 backup
• Press X - Wait for it to say Loading and background animation stops
• Press eject to close tray
• The game will now load

EA Boot Method (PS2 Backups)

NOTE: This is the method for PS2 backups that won't boot with normal method.

• Insert the AR2/GS2 CD1
• Power off the PS2 for 5 seconds
• Press and hold the reset button - machine will boot
• Menu screen will appear
• Select START GAME (Still holding Reset)
• Select WITHOUT CODES (Still holding reset)
• Let go of reset - tray will eject and stay open for 4 seconds
• The disc will still be spinning when using AR2/GS2 v1.4 & above
• Swap AR2/GS2 disc with your PS2 backup
• Do not press eject - the tray will close automatically
• Press X AS SOON as the tray closes
• For AR2/GS2 v1.4 & above you need to select O + R1 instead of X
• The game will now load

You also have the option to patch your EA game.

EA Boot Method 2 (PS2 Backups)

NOTE: This is the alternative EA Method that seems to work for some people.

• Insert the AR2/GS2 CD1
• Power off the PS2 for 5 seconds
• Press and hold the reset button - machine will boot
• Menu screen will appear
• Let go of reset - tray will eject and stay open for 4 seconds
• The disc will still be spinning when using AR2/GS2 v1.4 & above
• Leave the AR2/GS2 disc in and let the tray close
• Select START GAME
• Select WITHOUT CODES
• Press Eject
• Swap AR2/GS2 disc with your PS2 backup
• Press Eject - Game will now load
• Press X
• If you have v1.4 & above you may need to press O + R1 instead of X
• The game will now load

You also have the option to patch your EA game.

DVD Rip Boot Method (PS2 DVD Rips)

NOTE: Another alternative method for troublesome discs.

• Insert the AR2/GS2 CD1
• Power off the PS2 for 5 seconds
• Press and hold the reset button - machine will boot
• Menu screen will appear
• Let go of reset - tray will eject and stay open for 4 seconds
• The disc will still be spinning when using AR2/GS2 v1.4 & above
• Swap AR2/GS2 disc with your DVD Rip backup
• Select START GAME
• Select WITHOUT CODES
• Press eject till tray comes out halfway then press eject again
• Press X AS SOON as the tray closes
• For AR2/GS2 v1.4 & above you need to select O + R1 instead of X
• The game will now load

Ready to Rumble 2 Boot Method (Alternative Method)

NOTE: Some people had trouble with Ready to Rumble 2 and this seemed to fix it.

• Use the normal EA Boot Method to boot the game
• As soon as the game starts to check the Memory Card Press EJECT
• Wait a couple of seconds until the main R2R screen appears
• Close the tray and the game should now work ok

Booting Playstation 1 backups & Playstation 2 originals

Wouldn't it be great if all backups booted like this !

• Power off the PS2 for 5 seconds
• Boot as normal - no special method

How to boot Playstation 1 originals

NOTE: This technique simply deactivates the chip

• Insert your PSX original
• Power off the PS2 for 5 seconds
• Press reset for 1 second (Until blue light comes on) then let go
• Game will now boot as normal - the chip is deactivated

How to boot PSX imports

• Insert your PSX original
• Power off the PS2 for 5 seconds
• Turn on the machine
• Press eject just before the PSX LOGO SCREEN
• Swap with your PSX import backup
• Press eject to close the tray
• The game will now load

How to boot DVD-R (only) with AR2/GS2 V2x

• Insert AR2/GS2
• Power down console, wait 5 sec, and restart console by pressing and holding reset. (Dont let go)
• After GS2 completely loads, swap with original dvd game.(high TOC)
• Wait about 15 sec and select Gameshark codes (or ar2 codes) and turn on or off any code on any game.
• Press start, select with codes and press x to load game.
• You will see a black screen saying "updating codes please wait" at this time release the reset button, tray will eject, swap with backup, tray closes and game loads.



Apple Mod Chip


NOTE: It is assumed that your machine is in the Standby mode, ie machine is not switched on.

Playstation 2 games

•Press EJECT button to switch on the machine.
•Insert PS2 game in tray, then press EJECT button to close tray.
•Once the tray closes fully, press/tap the RESET button once to load game.

DVD movies

•Press EJECT button to switch on the machine.
•Once the browser/system config screen shows. Select and go into browser.
•Insert DVD movie in tray, then press EJECT button to close tray.
•If the disc is not detected within 3-5 seconds. Press EJECT button to open tray. Once the tray opens fully, press EJECT button again to close tray. The disc should be recognise at least by the second time.

Playstation 1 games

•Press EJECT button to switch on the machine.
•Insert PSX game in tray, then press and hold RESET button to switch off machine.
•Now hold the RESET button to start up your machine. Only release the RESET button once you see the first power on screen on your TV. ie hold RESET button for like 4-5 seconds
•Your PSX game should now boot. (If it shows the PSX game as an audio cd. This means that you didn't hold the RESET button long enough.)

Matrix 2 Mod Chip


NOTE: This is with the disk assumed in the tray and the tray closed:

Playstation 2 games

•Power up normally from STANDBY with RESET button. A single tap of the reset button is required.

Playstation 1 games & DVD Movies

•Power up from STANDBY with RESET button held until the blue EJECT light comes on.
•Then release RESET and the disk will boot.

NOTE: Turn off the PS2 (to standby) before changing Modes (PS1/PS2/DVD)


Auto Key 3


Operation instructions:
•Install Auto Key into PS2.
•Plug PS2 Dual Shock joypad into Player 1 slot of PS2.
•Turn PS2 power on, a red light will go on indicating that Reset is on.
•Press and hold Reset button, the reset and eject light will appear in 5 different indications, you will see that the indications will show its related feature accordingly one by one as shown in the diagram below.



Playstation 2 Originals:

•Press Eject button and tray will move out, insert original game
•Press Reset to make the tray go back, PS2 will then go to Standby mode
•Reset light will flash Red
•Press and hold Reset button until the PS2 goes into Original Mode, then release the Reset button
•The game will then start with loading for operation

Playstation 2 DVD Backups:

•Press Eject button and tray will move out, insert AR2 (GS2) disc1 of v1.71, v1.91, v1.93 or v2.0x
•Press Reset to make the tray go back , PS2 will then go to Standby mode
•Reset light will flash Red
•Press and hold Reset button until the PS2 goes into PS2 DVD Backup Mode, then release Reset button
•AR2(GS2) Main Menu will be on monitor, and the tray will come out automatically.
•Swap PS2 DVD Originals (TOC MUST be HIGHER than backup) in place of AR2 (GS2) disc1, the tray will go back automatically.
•At that time, Reset button light will become red for about 7 sec, during this time the PS2 will check the TOC of original PS2 DVD. After, the Reset button will be flashing green.
•Don't touch anything, the PS2 will automatically enter " START GAME "," WITHOUT CODE ",The tray will then move out automatically again.
•Swap PS2 DVD backup in place of the PS2 Original
•The tray will then move back again automatically
•No need to press " X " of joypad, the game will autotomatically start.

Playstaton 2 CD Backups in Mode 1 :

•Press Eject button and tray will move out, insert AR2 (GS2) disc1 of v1.71, v1.91, v1.93 or v2.0x into tray
•Press Reset to make the tray go back , PS2 will then go to Standby mode
•Reset light will flash Red
•Press and hold Reset button until the PS2 goes into PS2 CD Backup Mode 1, then release Reset button
•The AR2(GS2) Main Menu will be on monitor. The tray will then come out automatically
•Swap PS2 CD Backups in place of AR2 (GS2) disc1, the tray will then go back automatically
•Don't touch anything, the PS2 will automatically enter " START GAME "," WITHOUT CODE ", and the game will automatically start without press " X " button

Playstation 2 CD Backups in Mode 2 :

NOTE: This is in case any PS2 CD Backups do not work in Mode 1.

•Boot exactly like you would for Mode 1 with the exception of when you release the reset button.
•Wait to release the reset button until the PS2 goes into PS2 CD Backup Mode 2

Playstation 1 Backups :

•Press Eject button and tray will move out, insert PSX Backup CD into tray.
•Press Reset to make the tray go back , PS2 will then go to Standby mode - Reset light will flash Red.
•Press and hold Reset button until the PS2 goes into PSX Backup Mode, then release Reset button.
•The game will then boot.

NOTE:
ON US consoles, you can play all region PSX CD backups.
ON PAL consoles, you can only play PAL versions of PSX CD backups.


Messiah mod chip



Original games (PS1 and PS2 CD & DVD)
• Load as normal

PS2 backups (CD & DVD)
• Insert game and close tray
• Press reset

PS1 Backups
• Insert game and close tray
• Press reset twice

DVD Films
• Insert game and close tray
• Press reset twice

Messiah 2 mod chip



ALL PS2 games (Backups or Originals)

•Insert into tray.
•Close tray.
•Everything will boot.

PS1 or dvd movies(Backups or Originals)

•With the PS2 in standby mode and the game or movie in the tray....
•Press and hold reset until the blue eject light comes on, then release reset (only takes about 1-2 sec)

NEO 4



PS2 Originals:
• Games boot as normal.

PSone Originals:
• Games boot as normal.

PSone Backups:
• Games boot as normal.

PS2 CDR Backups:
• Games boot as normal.

PS2 DVDR Backups: (need to have an Original DVD PS2 Game with a high TOC)

• Turn on the PS2 without a game in.
• Choose Browser.
• Press EJECT, then insert your Original DVD Game.
• Press and Hold EJECT to close the tray. Keep EJECT pressed until the game registers (a gold disc will appear).
• Release EJECT, the tray will auto eject, and stay ejected for 6 seconds.
• Insert your DVDR game and wait for the tray to close.
• Press X to load the game.



The Ripper



Original games (PS1 and PS2 CD & DVD)
• Load as normal

PS2 backups (CD & DVD)
• Insert game and close tray
• Press reset

PS1 Backups
• Insert game and close tray
• Press reset twice

DVD Films
• Insert game and close tray
• Press reset twice

NOTE:In rare situations there is alternative way to start DVD VIDEO. When RESET light is RED, press RESET and keep it pressed until the BLUE light of the EJECT button goes on.


Ace Key



Playing PSX Backup Games
• Direct Boot

Playing PS2 CD Backup Games

• Insert AR2(GS2) Disc into PS2. ( V1.9X or V2.0X )
• Boot on PS2 and for a while the Main Menu will be appeared on monitor, at this time press "START GAME", and "WITHOUT CODE", after that pressing & holding Eject for one second, the tray will come out automatically. ( Reset & Eject light will flash about 5 seconds).
• Swap PS2 CD Backups in place of AR2(GS2) disc ,and the tray will come back to PS2 automatically after 5 seconds.
• Press the "X" button of joypad, then the game will be getting start.


Playing PS2 DVD Backup Games with AR2(GS2) v1.9x:

• Insert AR2(GS2) Disc into PS2. ( V1.9X )
• Boot on PS2 and for a while, the Main Menu will be appeared on monitor, at that time press twice Eject buttom, then the tray will come out automatically. (Reset & Eject light will flash about 5 seconds).
• Swap PS2 DVD Originals in place of AR2(GS2) disc within 5 seconds and after 5 seconds the tray will come back to PS2 automatically, at that time the Reset light will become to Red, meantime don't touch anything.
• Waiting for 10 seconds, Reset light will become to Green, then press "START GAME", and "WITHOUT CODE", at this time pressing & holding Eject for one second, then the tray will come out automatically. (Reset & Eject light will flash about 5 seconds)
• Swap PS2 DVD Backups in place of PS2 DVD Originals within 5 seconds, and the tray will come back to PS2 automatically after 5 seconds.
• Press the "X" button of joypad, then the game will be getting start.


Playing PS2 DVD Backup Games With AR2(GS2) V1.99 & BELOW (Alternative Method) :

Note: (First thing you have to do before playing DVD backup with AR2 (GS2) V2)
• Please check the cheat code of "...BMX" was existed in your AR2 (GS2) cheat list.
• Set up the cheat code of "Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX2" as default cheat code. (It is a very simple thing to do, just enter select cheat code and select the "Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX2" code, then return to Main Menu, at this time you will see "Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX2" on the below Main Menu page).

• Insert AR2(GS2) Disc into PS2. ( V2.0X )
• Boot on PS2 and for a while, the Main Menu will be existed on monitor, press twice Eject buttom, the tray will come out automatically. (Reset & Eject light will flash about 5 seconds).
• Swap PS2 DVD Originals in place of AR2(GS2) disc within 5 seconds, then the tray will come back to PS2 automatically after 5 seconds, at that time Reset light will become to Red, meantime don't touch anything.
• Waiting for 10 seconds, after then Reset light will become to Green, at that time press "START GAME", and "WITH CODE", then press "X" buttom of joypad, in the meantime there will be a Error message "Too many code...." appeared on monitor, then press "O" buttom of joypad twice for return to Main Menu Page.
• Press "START GAME", and "WITHOUT CODE", then pressing & holding Eject for one second, the tray will come out automatically, then swapping DVD backup with DVD Original within 5 seconds. (Reset & Eject light will flash about 5 seconds and tray will come back to PS2 after 5 seconds)
• Press the "X" button of joypad, then the game will be getting start.

Booting a Playstation2 DVD Backups With AR2(GS2) V2.01 and ABOVE


• Boot GS2 disc 1.
• At the main screen, press the EJECT button to eject the CD tray.
• Replace the GS2 disc with an original PS2 DVD game.
• Close the CD tray (press EJECT again) and wait for 15 seconds.
• Select gameshark codes and turn on or off any code on any game.
• Press start, select with codes and press x to load game.
• A black screen will appear saying "updating codes please wait"
• Do the R-mod swap by pressing and holding eject, swap with backup, tray will close and game will load.

• NOTE: The swap must be performed within the time you see the black screen.

• this has been tested with this method with GS2 v 2.01 through 2.11.

• It works 100% of the time providing the backup is good.


NH3 Mod (aka Magic 4--Just another clone)



Booting a Playstation 2: Original or Backup

• Insert game disk, hold down RESET turn off console until red led lights up then press RESET once to turn on the console.

Booting a Playstation 1: Original Or Backup

• Insert game disk, hold down RESET turn off console until red led lights up then press RESET once to turn on the console, wait for the blue led to light up and then press RESET once more (try once more if it fails).

Booting DVD Moives

• When using movie DVD (warning: it can only read movie DVDs according to the PS2 console region):

• Insert the disk, hold down RESET turn off console until red led lights up then hold down RESET, turn on the console and wait until the screen appears on the TV.


DMS 3



NOTE: This is with the disk assumed in the tray and the tray closed:

Playstation 2 mode:

• PS2 Mode is selected by turning on the PS2 from stand-by using the reset button. This can be a tap, a press or holding of the reset button. PS2 Mode is used to play all PS2 games, be it DVD media (including DVD9) or CD. This means import originals, non-import originals, "silver" pressed discs, backups and anything else the PS2 can read.

Playstation 1 mode:

• PS1 Mode is selected by turning on the PS2 from stand-by with a quick tap on the eject button. PS1 Mode is used to play all PS1 games, including originals, import originals, silvers, and backups.

DVD / Disable mode:

• DVD Movie / Disable Mode is selected by turning on the PS2 from stand-by by pressing and holding the eject button for 1/2 of a second.

Dev.olution Mode:

• Dev.olution Mode is selected by holding down the "Select" button on controller 1 while turning on the PS2 from stand-by using one of the main Boot Modes. The majority of the time, you will want to use "PS2 Mode" for this. At this time we can think of no reason why you'd need to use the other modes with Dev.olution Mode but if you do, you can.

• Dev.olution Mode allows you to boot applications off the PS2 memory card when the PS2 starts up, bypassing the normal PS2 introduction screen. Applications booted off the memory card can be anything from the new PS2Reality Media Player to the various emulators and "demos" that are available on the net. Technical specifications for developers will be available upon release of DMS3.

FastBoot Mode:

• FastBoot Mode is used to boot your PS2 games as quickly as possible. It is selected by holding down the "Start" button on controller 1 while turning on the PS2 from stand-by using the PS2 Mode. FastBoot Mode will bypass the PS2 introduction screen and boot the disc as soon as the CD/DVD drive has verified that the disc is valid (which another part of DMS3 handles). It will also skip the PS2 logo to ensure the fastest possible booting of your disc.



NEO 2.5 DVD Backup with GameShark2 / Action Gamer2

There's a little confusion about how this works. I figured it out today, and thought I'd share.

The Neo2.5 is MOSTLY for v5 PS2's. At the time I purchased my v5 PS2, and my Neo2.5, the current GameShark revision was 2.02 - this is where the troubles begin.

If you have a version 2.2 or higher GS2/AR2, booting a copied DVD is easy - just fire up the GameShark/modchip in DVD mode (both lights blinking), swap in a big ol' CD (such as GTA3 or FFX), and when you pick "start game" it'll let you swap in your copy. Easy!

BUT if you have a version 2.0x or 2.1 GS2/AR2, you fall into a little black hole in the backup Universe. You have to... *ahem* overload the GameShark.

Please assume, for the rest of this document, that I'm referring to either the GameShark2 or the Action Replay2 when I say GS, ok?

Here's what you do:

1. Put in the GS CD. Power up the PS2 in DVD mode (both green AND blue lights flashing).

2. When the disc ejects, insert a big ol' disc, such as GTA3 or FFX (FFX is only 4.29GB, whereas GTA3 is 4.37... but 99% of games are smaller anyway!).

3. The screen will change to a picture of a controller. The reset light will go red. Wait until the reset light goes green again (5-10 seconds while the disc is recognized), then back up a screen (using O).

4. If you have already done step 5, you may simply select the "tweaked" game you have already set up, and proceed to step 6.

5a. You need to "tweak" a game. The trick here is to overload the GS with too many codes, thus forcing it to eject the game disc in a parked state. Pick a game with a lot of codes. In this example I will use "Dark Cloud".

5b. Select "GameShark Codes", and choose that game, using X to select which codes to use. Turn on the first 65 codes. 65 may or may not be enough, depending on your exact version of GS and PS.

5c. When the codes are selected, hit O to return to the game list, then hit "Start". Choose to start WITH CODES. Try pressing X to start the game, and select which of the following happens to you:

- The system hangs (the little checkerboard pattern behind the words stops moving). In this case, you've picked too many codes. Try removing a few. Start over from step 1.

- The system does not hang, but X does not start the game. You haven't picked enough codes. Try adding a few. Back up with O, and start from the beginning of step 5.

- The game starts when you press X, but the disc ejects SPINNING. In this case, you have too few codes and the game is actually trying to use those codes. Start from step 1, add 5 or 10 codes.

- The game starts when you press X, and the disc ejects STOPPED. Bingo, you win! Proceed to step 6.

6. Slap in the copied disc, and enjoy!

Credit to Olle from the SR forums.

Additional X-Box tutorials can be found at:
http://www.xbox-scene.com/tutorials.php